How To Get From Dubai To Abu Dhabi
Last updated | May 2nd, 2025
The Abu Dhabi and Dubai are a 1.5 hours drive apart so travelers from Dubai visit Abu Dhabi regularly. The means of transport provided by the trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi are different in order for visitors to choose accordingly depending on finances and the purpose of their travel.
This article includes details on different travel methods, with information about expenses, together with duration of trips and comfort levels available.
By Car: Fast and Convenient
Travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi offers the fastest route with maximum flexibility by car. You have complete flexibility to both time your departure and drive route when you use your personal car or a rental vehicle. From Dubai to Abu Dhabi, you may easily reach Abu Dhabi within 1.5 to 2 hours without going to many routes on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11).
This choice suits everyone because travelers get from place to place fast and easy. Several rental services in Dubai offer convenient car leasing options to the public. You can obtain basic models starting from AED 100 daily though the final rates depend on car type selection and rental length.
Public Transport: Buses and Trains
There are low-cost transportation options provided by the regular public bus service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station reception can be reached from Al Ghubaiba bus station in Dubai, as there are direct connections. The flight from Dubai to Abu Dhabi takes two hours, and the fare starts from AED 25 to 30 without return.
At present, the cities lack any direct rail link. The future Etihad Rail project will establish rapid and contemporary rail linkages that increase this journey.
Private Transfers: Comfortable Option
People who need luxury and ease of travel should opt for private transportation services. Commercial providers offer luxury chauffeured transportation services that provide connectivity alongside food and drink provisions with flexible itinerary-based pickup services.
Customers pay AED 300 to AED 500 per one-way journey based on the service provider and vehicle choice.
Flights: Quick but Expensive
A short 30 to 45 minute flight connects Dubai to Abu Dhabi, and transportation services are available between these two UAE cities. The required process of airport check-ins combined with security checks, as well as travel to and from the airports work against the time-saving benefits of this travel method.
One-way airplane tickets in the Range from AED 300 to AED 700 provide access to the route between these cities. This short journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi usually gets covered by road transportation unless there is a specific reason present or exceptional deals active.
Travel Costs Comparison
| Method | Cost (AED) | Estimated Travel Time | Comfort Level |
| By Car | 100 – 300 | 1.5 – 2 hours | Moderate |
| By Bus | 25 – 30 | 2 – 2.5 hours | Basic |
| Private Transfer | 300 – 500 | 1.5 – 2 hours | High |
| By Flight | 300 – 700 | 30-45 minutes | Moderate |
FAQs
Is it possible to drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi with a rental car?
Yes, you can. It would take you an hour and a half driving on the E11 or E311 highways. Make sure your rental agreement permits cross-town travel only.
Does Dubai have a taxi service to Abu Dhabi?
Yes, taxis are available 24/7. Fare depends on the distance and traffic, starting from about AED 300 to AED 400.
Does it have any carpooling or ridesharing options?
Yes, careem and Uber at times offer intercity rides as a service. Also there are informal carpooling groups on social media.
Conclusion
There are several travel methods between Dubai and Abu Dhabi that serve budget-conscious people of all backgrounds. Every travel mode from Dubai to Abu Dhabi brings its own advantages to travelers who can select driving, buses, private transport, and air travel.
People choosing public transport save money, while road and private vehicle users prefer fast travel. Tourists can travel quickly to Abu Dhabi from its dynamic twin city because of their proximity, which lets visitors experience all of Abu Dhabi’s attractions without delay.
